Georges River Council has launched a new digital platform for development applications, using artificial intelligence to speed up compliance checking and provide applicants with real-time tracking of their submissions.

The system, which went live this month, represents a significant upgrade from the previous paper-based process that often saw applications take months to move through assessment.

“We heard loud and clear from residents and businesses that the DA process was frustrating,” said council’s Director of Planning, Michael Chen. “This system addresses many of those pain points.”

How It Works

The new platform introduces several innovations:

Smart Application Submission

• Guided online forms that ensure complete applications
• Automatic document validation
• Integrated payment processing
• Instant acknowledgment and reference number

AI-Powered Pre-Checking

• Immediate feedback on basic compliance issues
• Identification of missing or incorrect documents
• Flagging of potential issues before formal assessment
• Suggestions for required referrals (heritage, flooding, etc.)

Real-Time Tracking

• Dashboard showing application status
• Notifications at each milestone
• Direct messaging with assessment officers
• Calendar integration for meeting dates

Faster Processing

• Automated routing to appropriate assessment teams
• Digital referrals to other agencies
• Electronic condition drafting
• Online determination issuance

The platform was developed in partnership with a firm providing AI implementation help, who trained the system on thousands of historical applications to recognise common issues.

Early Results

After one month of operation, the system has processed over 400 applications with notable improvements:

• 45% reduction in incomplete application submissions
• Average pre-lodgement checking time reduced from 2 weeks to 2 hours
• 30% fewer requests for additional information
• Applicant satisfaction scores up 25 points

“The AI catches things that used to take weeks to identify,” said assessment team leader Sarah Wong. “Issues that would have bounced back and forth between applicant and council are now sorted at submission.”

User Experience

Early users have provided positive feedback about the new system.

Architect David Kowalski, who submits dozens of applications annually, called it “transformative.”

“I used to spend hours chasing updates and wondering where applications were stuck,” he said. “Now I log in and see exactly what’s happening. And the compliance checking catches errors before I submit, which saves everyone time.”

Residential applicant Jennifer Thornton, who recently submitted plans for a backyard granny flat, appreciated the guidance.

“I’m not a building professional, so I didn’t know what I was doing. The system walked me through everything step by step and told me exactly what documents I needed.”

Privacy and Security

The platform includes robust security measures:

• All data encrypted in transit and at rest
• Multi-factor authentication for all users
• Audit trails for all access and changes
• Compliance with Australian privacy legislation

Council emphasises that the AI assists human assessors rather than making decisions autonomously. All determinations continue to require professional assessment and approval.

What’s Next

Future enhancements planned for 2026 include:

• Integration with NSW Planning Portal
• 3D model submission and review
• Expanded AI capabilities for complex developments
• Mobile app for site inspections

Applicants can access the new system through council’s website. Assistance is available at council’s customer service centre for those who prefer in-person support.